Recalled Peter Siddle helps tie down England as Australia close in on win in Ashes finale

Recalled Australia fast bowler Peter Siddle was happy with his contribution after the tourists moved to the brink of victory over England in the final Ashes test against England at The Oval on Saturday.

Siddle bowled 16 overs, including 10 maidens, and conceded only 14 runs in England’s second innings after not making the team for the first four tests of the series.

“I’ve been carrying a few drinks which has been disappointing, I would have liked my chance, but I didn’t bowl as well as I could in the tour matches,” Siddle said.

“I’ve been feeling good. Pressure is key – that’s what I’ve been able to build for the team. My plan was to get it going across Alastair Cook and it was a good battle.”

England, who have already won the series, followed on 332 runs behind and reached 203 for six at the close, still 129 runs short of making Australia bat again.

“The follow-on is always hard, it was a long day today, but Pup [captain Michael Clarke] asked us what we wanted to do and he wanted to have a real go at winning this test match,” the 30-year-old Siddle said.